The Energy Information Administration (EIA) resumes data surveys on Bitcoin mining operations
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) has announced that it will resume its data surveys on Bitcoin mining operations in the United States. This follows the suspension of a previous emergency survey and the destruction of associated records. In a recent webinar, the EIA sought feedback on the types of information that should be collected, existing valuable data, and key factors for future surveys.
Key challenges and plans of the EIA
Two key challenges were identified: first, differentiating mining operations from general energy consumers and second, tracking the relocation of these operations to take advantage of lower electricity prices. The EIA plans to initiate a new survey this year, taking into account both public and industry feedback.
Industry representatives discuss the topic
The webinar attracted industry representatives including Thomas Mapes (Digital Energy Council), Michael Postupak (Blockchain Association), Margot Paez (Bitcoin Policy Institute and Georgia Tech), Jayson Browder (Marathon Digital Holdings) and Lee Bratcher (Texas Blockchain Council). They argued that Bitcoin mining can support energy infrastructure, particularly in the context of demand response programs and renewable energy development.
Participants’ concerns and suggestions
Some concerns were raised about Bitcoin miners being singled out in the surveys and the impact this might have on their operations during peak periods. Lee Bratcher suggested expanding the survey to include general data centers and distinguishing between flexible, i.e. adaptable, and inflexible data centers. Jayson Browder and public participant Dennis Heidner raised concerns about financial incentives that might encourage miners to temporarily halt their activities.
Research cooperation proposed
Margot Paez proposed a partnership between Georgia Tech and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to leverage ongoing research on data center energy consumption. This collaboration could help the EIA obtain the necessary data without compromising the privacy of mining operations.
A collaborative approach to informed policy decisions
The EIA appears to be seeking a more collaborative approach with industry stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the energy consumption of Bitcoin mining to support informed policy decisions.
